Luke Fraser.

Sgt Paddy McDonnell said: “The thorough police investigation following the tragic death of 18-year-old Christian Pay and the subsequent sentences handed down by the Judge clearly show how seriously the police and courts see the issue of drug dealing in the community.

“The case gives a strong message about the significant dangers of the use of illicit controlled drugs. Not only is the taking of controlled drugs illegal but poses a real threat to people’s health and ultimately in this case proved fatal.

“The drug dealing is a totally unregulated industry with no checks or quality control. Therefore people will very often have little or no idea what the actual content of the drug is that they have purchased, in relation to either the strength or even the identity of the drug. The advice of the police is to avoid the use of any controlled drugs whatsoever.